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(KMOV) – The Jennings School District is re-opening its student-run food pantry after a successful first year.

Last year, the district became the first in the state to open a food pantry. Students pack boxes, greet customers and stock shelves.

95-percent of the district’s students receive free and reduced lunch.

While there are some area food pantries, poverty is rising, so the district stepped up to fill the gap.

“As a result of our food-based pantry, our school increased dramatically at the end of the year. So we believe that part of that is because we took the time to serve the whole child, the food needs, and the clothing needs. We do that as well. We give them shoes, and when kids come in, they are ready to learn,” said Dr. Tiffany Anderson, Superintendent of the Jennings School District.

So far the pantry has served more than a thousand students.

It has increased parental involvement. Parents get a bag of groceries if they come to the PTA.